Protecting Padre Island, One Cleanup at a Time
Join us each year for the Billy Sandifer Big Shell Beach Cleanup, where volunteers like you help preserve the longest undeveloped barrier island in the world—Padre Island National Seashore.
About the Cleanup
For over 30 years, we’ve brought together thousands of volunteers to clean Big Shell beach—one rugged, remote stretch at a time. Since 1995, more than 17,400 volunteers have hauled out a staggering 3.2 million pounds of trash across a 4WD-only shoreline.
Our annual cleanup isn’t just about waste removal—it’s a celebration of community, environmental stewardship, and the wild natural beauty that makes Padre Island so unique.
How You Can Help
Whether you live on the coast or just care about it, your support makes a real difference.
Volunteer for our annual beach cleanup, donate to support conservation year-round, or spread the word to help protect Padre Island’s fragile beauty for generations to come.
Upcoming Events
From the annual Billy Sandifer Big Shell Beach Cleanup to community outreach and conservation efforts, our events bring people together with a shared love for Padre Island.
Big Shell Beach Cleanup
Be part of the world’s largest single-day beach cleanup—no signup required! Meet at Malaquite Visitor Center by 8 AM. We’ll provide 4×4 rides if needed, T-shirts while supplies last, and lunch after the event. Bring your energy and help us protect Padre Island.
Friends of Padre FALL FIESTA
Join us for Fall Fiesta! It is a day of music, food, local vendors, and fun activities that highlight the beauty and culture of Padre Island. It’s a great way to connect, learn, and celebrate everything that makes this place special. Come find out what Friends of Padre is all about.
Want to Host an Event?
Want to make an impact beyond the Big Shell Cleanup? You can! Organize a local beach walk, school fundraiser, or small-scale cleanup in your community. We’ll provide guidance, resources, and support to help you turn your passion into action—wherever you are.
Turtles
Birds
Seagrass
Dunes
Waters
What We Protect
Our Supporters
Volunteer
A worthy cause! & well worth the time cleaning up the garbage that deposits on that stretch of beach. It makes a difference!
Volunteer
Y’all are the best!!!
Volunteer
It is an honor to be a part of this event every year! I thought it was like our 6th or 7th year but has been our 8th
Volunteer
All of you guys are totally amazing, many many thank you! I’m taking my gang next time for sure, we want to be heroes too!
Volunteer
It was our first time volunteering for this event. So glad we did. It’s so awesome to see so many people willing to work hard to clean up the beaches. We will be looking for more events to attend.